IGN: It's been about a week since the beta went live, what has been the biggest surprise for you guys?
Robert Cogburn: We've taken a lot of pleasure in seeing people's opinions morph throughout the beta. There were a number of mixed feelings about the new systems and gameplay mechanics we added at the start of the beta but, as the week went on, people started to talk about how much they are now enjoying them. No doubt there is room for improvement, but that is what the beta is for, so we can get that feedback.
IGN: What's going on with the level cap? You said it was 25, but I've played kids who are pushing the lower 30s. What's the real cap?
Robert Cogburn: The level cap for the beta is actually level 50. We thought it would be a nice surprise to let players get past that. While you do not unlock anything past 25, you can see just how awesome your rank image is going to be.
IGN: I posted an article about what wowed me and what needs work from the beta and, shockingly, there were a lot of comments agreeing with me. Agreeing that Uncharted multiplayer is rad but that melee and climbing could use some tweaks. What do you think of that feedback? Are you looking at those points?
Robert Cogburn: We are not just looking at those points but actively trying to figure them out right now. There are a slew of ideas being discussed at the office right now about how we might be able to tackle these improvements. This is what makes this beta so important for us – it has Naughty Dog asking questions about its decisions and, given the player feedback, take a step back to see if those decisions were in the right direction.
IGN: I got yelled at by a lot of players, so I need you to settle an argument – is camping a legitimate strategy? My 4-1 record last night says it is.
Robert Cogburn: Camping is a legitimate play style. However, and I can say this with a lot confidence, I will destroy your camping play style with my aggressive, in-your-face, play style. I will roll, sprint and flank your camping style any day.
IGN: What haven't I asked that you'd like to touch on? What Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta tidbit is on the tip of your tongue?
Robert Cogburn: To the Uncharted community, to the people out there playing Naughty Dog's game, we are listening to you. Keep playing the beta, enjoying it and giving us feedback – especially on
the NaughtyDog.com forums. We at Naughty Dog want to deliver the best multiplayer game possible and we appreciate the help of everyone out there.